MELBOURNE defenders Joel Macdonald and Luke Tapscott will face fitness tests in the lead-up to round 15.

 

Although coach Dean Bailey indicated on Monday that Macdonald was a reasonable chance to play against the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium on Friday night, he said Tapscott was more likely to play for Casey if available.

 

Forward/midfielder Neville Jetta (hand) remains two matches away, while vice-captain Aaron Davey (knee) is still 2-3 weeks from resuming.

 

Dasher Rohan Bail (knee) will be sidelined for a further 3-4 weeks, while tall Michael Newton (foot) is out for another four matches.

 

Youngster Jack Fitzpatrick (ankle) is 2-3 weeks from returning.

 

Leader Jack Grimes (foot) and ruckman Jake Spencer (knee) are out for the rest of 2011.

 

Rohan Bail (knee) - 3-4 weeks

Aaron Davey (knee) - 2-3 weeks

Jack Fitzpatrick (ankle) - 2-3 weeks

Jack Grimes (foot) - season

Neville Jetta (hand) - 2 weeks

Joel Macdonald (knee) - test